Mainstreet will run Whanganui's Artists Open Studios next year, and aims to encourage more artists to hold displays in the town centre.
Mainstreet Events, marketing and promotions manager Kelly Scarrow said in past years, artists have displayed their artwork in shop windows encouraging visitors to visit the open studios and adding a colourful splash to the Mainstreet area.
"This is naturally the first place visitors see when coming to Whanganui and we are keen to bring this back into the event."
The event is run on behalf of the arts community by the Artist Open Studios Trust, which is chaired by Ross Fallen.
"Artists Open Studios is a major event on our town calendar. We are excited about having Mainstreet manage this for us," Mr Fallen said.
"Whanganui is a significant arts destination. While our studios are spread throughout the town's centre, environs and district, it is hoped that providing various side events, with almost all in the town centre, that this will add to the experience and vibrancy of the event.
"This event is one way we acknowledge the sheer depth and breadth of artistic talent in Whanganui."
Artists Open Studios was founded by artists Catherine Macdonald and Sue Cooke. It was originally an event for riverside studios when it began in 2001.
Their idea has now blossomed into a large-scale Whanganui regional event, with increasing patronage from our major cities and even Australia.
The 2017 event encompassed in excess of 70 studios opening their doors to welcome visitors and locals.
Mainstreet, which manage the Town Centre, believe there are natural collaborations and benefits between themselves and AOS.
As a result of the collaboration, more art will be displayed in the town centre, which will encourage locals and visitors into the businesses.
"We are excited to strengthen the relationship between the arts community and the town centre businesses, and look forward to seeing the event flourish in 2018," Mainstreet general manager Amanda Gibbons said.